These Easy Blackstone Smash Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! Made with simple ground beef, they cook quickly on a hot griddle, giving you that perfect crispy edge.
I love how fun it is to smash the patties down and watch them sizzle! 🥳 You can top them with cheese, lettuce, or anything your heart desires. They’ll be gone before you know it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, go for ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind they may need a little more seasoning.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a classic flavor. If you want to switch it up, try Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for some spice. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re avoiding dairy.
Burger Sauce: I love a simple mayo-based sauce with a touch of mustard and relish. If you’re looking for lighter options, a yogurt-based sauce or aioli can be great alternatives!
Hamburger Buns: Any classic burger bun works, but I really enjoy using brioche buns for a touch of sweetness. Gluten-free buns are also a good choice if you need that option!
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash on Your Burgers?
The key to a great smash burger is the smashing technique! When you place the meat on the hot griddle, you want to apply enough pressure to create a thin patty without squishing out all the juices.
- Use a heavy spatula or burger press and smash the ball flat within the first minute of cooking.
- Don’t press too hard! Just enough to flatten it to about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season the patty after smashing; this helps build that crispy edge as it cooks.
- Cook it for a couple of minutes until the edges get that nice caramelization before flipping.
Remember, the goal is a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful!
Easy Blackstone Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 fat content recommended)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- 4 tbsp burger sauce (e.g., mayo-based sauce or your favorite burger sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes total. You’ll spend about 5 minutes preparing the ingredients and then about 10 minutes cooking. In no time, you’ll be biting into delicious smash burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Griddle:
Start by preheating your Blackstone griddle or a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. This is crucial for getting that nice crispy crust on your burgers.
2. Prepare the Beef:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Lightly form each portion into a ball. Remember not to compact them too much; we want to keep them as loose as possible for juiciness!
3. Smash the Patties:
Place one beef ball onto the hot griddle and immediately smash it flat using a spatula or a burger press. Aim for about a 1/2-inch thick patty. This step is key for creating that delicious crispy edge!
4. Season:
Generously season the smashed patty with salt and black pepper. This adds flavor as it cooks!
5. Cook the First Side:
Cook the patty for about 2 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned. You’ll get that lovely caramelization that makes these burgers so tasty!
6. Add Cheese & Flip:
Carefully flip the patty using your spatula and place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patty is cooked through.
7. Toast the Buns:
While the patty is finishing up, toast your hamburger buns on the griddle until they are golden and slightly crispy. This adds a nice texture to your burger!
8. Assemble Your Burger:
Spread about one tablespoon of burger sauce on the bottom bun. Add the cheesy patty on top, and then place the other bun half on top to complete the burger.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve immediately and enjoy your juicy, flavorful Blackstone smash burger! Don’t forget to add any extra toppings you love, like lettuce, tomato, or pickles!
FAQ for Easy Blackstone Smash Burgers
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
While you can use leaner ground beef, like 90/10, it might result in drier burgers. The 80/20 blend is ideal as it has enough fat to keep the burgers juicy and flavorful. If using lean beef, consider adding a little oil or butter to help maintain moisture.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
You can get creative with toppings! Some popular options include sautéed onions, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, pickles, or various sauces like BBQ or hot sauce. Try mixing and matching to find your favorite combination!
Can I Make Smash Burgers in Advance?
Yes! You can shape the beef balls in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to cook them right before serving for the juiciest results. If you have leftover cooked patties, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How Can I Keep Burgers Warm While Cooking Multiple Batches?
If you’re making multiple burgers, you can keep them warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish cooking the rest. This way, they stay warm and ready to enjoy without overcooking!
